Athlete/Warrior

by Jonathan Anderson (Photographer)

In Athlete/Warrior, photographers Anderson & Low present photographs of young men and women who are training for both the sports field and the battlefield while studying at America's three famed armed forces the US Military Academy, West Point, in New York State, the US Naval Academy at Annapolis, Maryland, and the US Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs, Colorado. Arresting juxtapositions of cadets in their military dress - from formal to fatigues - and in the uniforms of their chosen sports, including swimming, boxing, football, gymnastics, and basketball, among others, reveal subtle similarities and differences between the roles assumed by such disciplined and dedicated individuals. The resonant images in Athlete/Warrior go beyond the military and sporting uniforms to highlight both the humanity of the individuals portrayed and the noble aspirations that they embody. These themes are expanded upon in thoughtful texts by Anderson & Low, who outline the origins of the project and reflect on their work, and by the writer and poet Steve Anderson, giving further significance to the images in this book.

191 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2005

Reviews

[Anthony McGill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great selection of photos of military personnel, male and female, in mostly sports related activities. No question the quality of the photography of Steve Anderson and Edwin Low as presented here in striking full page poses and published on high quality paper.
To me, the photos were just TOO posed and therefore were lacking in any real spontaneity. To others this 'stiff upper lip' display may well be the most engaging part of the collection.
As mentioned the photos are outstanding but the book will probably appeal more to those who have an affinity with the military than for the average reader.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book. Coming from a military family, it gives me a deep appreciation for what our service people commit to and follow-through on. Awesome pictorial. Photos are priceless.